Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY has been dazzling viewers for nearly half a century. The visionary sci-fi epic begs to be experienced on a big screen, and there’s no better time than now, with a new 70mm print of the film struck by Warner Bros. expressly for the American Cinematheque.

Shot in Super Panavision 70, the film's larger frame size - nearly double that of standard 35mm film - offers remarkable resolution. Figures in windows of spaceships, patterns in the star gate sequence and numerous other details are more plainly visible than ever before. And this is a film built on visuals; Kubrick’s affinity for geometrical shot composition finds a perfect thematic match in this tale about the possibilities and perils of technology. Audio is equally important to 2001, even if the film is deliberately short of dialogue. The soundtrack’s use of classical compositions has become iconic - it’s almost impossible to hear Strauss’ “Also Sprach Zarathustra” or “The Blue Danube” without visualizing monoliths and whirling space stations. The new 70mm print of 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY includes the atmospheric overture, intermission and closing music.

Though its mix of grand philosophical themes and unanswered questions (what does that broken wine glass mean?) drew polarized critical reactions upon release, through the passage of time 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY has become firmly embedded in popular culture. The greatest film ever? Some would say yes, but even if you don’t, you can still enjoy the spectacle of this one-of-a-kind cinematic wonder in 70mm.

We have a limited number of 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY posters signed by Gary Lockwood and Keir Dullea, which will be sold at these screenings in addition to 2001 t-shirts by DAMMIT TEES and HAL9000 donuts designed by Donut Friend. For more information, please email info@americancinematheque.com.